Aritaya Ryokan
10/10 Exceptional - Based on 1 reviews
Aritaya Ryokan is a small, family-run ryokan tucked into the Togura Kamiyamada Onsen district of Chikuma in Nagano Prefecture. Operating since the Taisho era, the property preserves a traditional Japanese atmosphere across about ten uniquely styled tatami rooms, each furnished with futon bedding and simple wooden details that open onto a compact garden or courtyard view. Public spaces are modest and communal, and the ryokan emphasizes quiet hospitality and seasonal presentation rather than modern luxury, making it a suited choice for travelers seeking an authentic onsen inn near local attractions and easy access from the nearby train station by short shuttle.
The bathing facilities are a defining feature: Aritaya advertises 100% natural, source-flowing onsen water delivered without circulation, with an alkaline sulfur composition that guests commonly describe as softening to the skin and gradually adopting an emerald hue on exposure. The ryokan operates public baths for guest use and offers a small private-bath option that can be reserved for exclusive use, so visitors looking specifically for a ryokan with onsen experience or a ryokan with private onsen can plan accordingly. Baths are available around the clock, and the simple layout prioritizes calm and traditional bathing etiquette.
Meals focus on Shinshu ingredients presented in thoughtful multi-course Japanese style, with the dinner menu and morning offerings prepared daily using local produce and house specialties. Practical amenities include complimentary parking and a station shuttle, plus accessible room types and some newer rooms equipped with modern toilets while retaining traditional décor. Service is attentive and personal, with staff assisting bookings for meals and the private bath; the ryokan suits couples and small groups who value regional cuisine, genuine onsen waters and a low-key, heritage ryokan ambience.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Aritaya Ryokan
Positive Reviews
Attentive, polite reservation service
Phone correspondence at booking was very polite and left a very good impression, indicating helpful and courteous staff from the start.
Charming, well-maintained traditional building and rooms
The ryokan’s historic atmosphere felt like a time trip; although the building is old, its charm is strong. Rooms were clean, well cared for and provided a calm, satisfying Japanese-style stay.
Private bath availability
Guests could reserve and use the bath privately, offering a more exclusive and relaxing onsen experience.
High-quality natural hot spring (gensen kake-nagashi)
The onsen is source-fed (continuous flow) with excellent water quality; it left the guest’s skin very smooth and was described as outstanding.
Delicious, well-balanced Japanese meals with attentive presentation
Meals were very tasty and nutritionally balanced. The young proprietress explained the dishes carefully, enhancing the dining experience.
Negative Reviews
No fan in women’s changing room and bath water quite hot
The water in the women’s bath was rather hot, and the absence of a fan in the changing room made this uncomfortable—this lack of ventilation was noted as disappointing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Room types range from single/twin layouts to traditional Japanese rooms with up to five futon beds; check the selected room type for maximum occupancy and request extra bedding if needed.
Yes — the property offers public hot-spring baths on site for guests to use, and guests have reported the option to reserve a small private bath by request.
A free shuttle is available from Togura Station (short drive); guests should inform the ryokan of arrival time or call on arrival to arrange pickup.
Typical routes are by shinkansen or highway bus to Nagano, then local rail to Togura Station; from Togura Station the ryokan’s shuttle or a short taxi ride will get you to the property.
Staff primarily speak Japanese; English support is limited, so carrying a translation app or simple phrases is recommended.
Rooms are traditional tatami-style with futon bedding and private toilets, while dinner is served as a seasonal multi-course Japanese meal and breakfast is a Japanese set menu in the dining room.
The ryokan sits in the Togura Kamiyamada hot-spring district and is close to local parks and Jyoyama Shiseki; Ueda Castle ruins and other Nagano-area sights are within a short drive for day trips.
The ryokan provides free parking for guests and a shuttle from Togura Station; local taxis and regional trains serve the area for onward travel.
Standard check-in begins at 14:00 (2:00 PM) and check-out is by 10:00 AM; please notify the ryokan in advance if your arrival is later than the listed check-in window.
Pets are not allowed at the property; private use of a bath may be possible by prior request, and there are shops, restaurants and convenience stores in the Togura Kamiyamada Onsen area for basic supplies.